Repairing and Sealing Cracks in Concrete

NOTE: When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves.

Concrete Cracks

Concrete is one of the most durable building materials available; but because of its rigid nature, exterior concrete can develop cracks due to:

Drying

Shrinkage

Temperature changes

Ground movement

Excessive loads

Once a crack develops, it’s important to seal the crack from water to prevent further deterioration. Flexible sealants are the best solution for concrete cracks that are subjected to continual slab movement, since they allow the concrete to shift.

As with any repair to concrete, proper attention to crack preparation is essential to achieving a successful result. Read on to find out how to repair cracks in concrete.

Backed by his 40-year remodeling career, Danny served as the home improvement expert for CBS’s The Early Show and The Weather Channel for more than a decade. His extensive hands-on experience and understanding of the industry make him the go-to source for all things having to do with the home – from advice on simple repairs, to complete remodels, to helping homeowners prepare their homes for extreme weather and seasons.

The temperature can affect a lot of things, including concrete. If there are changes in temperatures across the season, it would be reasonable to expect some damage to the concrete. Checking the concrete before and after each season would be a good way to fix any cracks before it becomes serious.